Harvey Hernandez

Harvey Hernandez is the Chairman & CEO of Miami-based Newgard Group. With more than 25 years of experience, he has established himself as one of the real estate industry's most visionary developers, known for creating innovative residential, hospitality, and branded real estate concepts that continue to shape skylines and redefine urban living across the United States.

Originally from Venezuela, Hernandez began his real estate career in Miami during the 1990s as a hands-on investor. Recognizing the city's tremendous growth potential, he evolved into large-scale development, focusing on luxury high-rise residential communities distinguished by exceptional design, hospitality-inspired amenities, strategic brand partnerships, and innovative ownership models.

Under his leadership, Newgard has successfully completed 19 real estate developments representing more than $3.6 billion in aggregate development value, with an active development pipeline exceeding $1 billion. The company's portfolio spans Miami, West Palm Beach, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Austin, Nashville, and other high-growth markets, encompassing residential, hospitality, mixed-use, office, and adaptive reuse projects.

Known for anticipating emerging market trends, Hernandez pioneered branded residential developments designed for flexible ownership and short-term rental use. He created the LOFTY residential brand, while also helping introduce new ownership models that blend residential real estate with hospitality-driven experiences. Today, Newgard continues to expand nationally through innovative branded residential communities and luxury lifestyle developments.

Hernandez's leadership and industry impact have earned widespread recognition. In 2026, he was named both a South Florida Business Journal Real Estate Titan and one of The Real Deal's TRD 100 – Top 100 South Florida Real Estate Titans, recognizing the region's most influential developers. He was also named Developer of the Year at the 2025 RED Awards, recognized as a South Florida Business Journal Power Player in Real Estate in 2024, and received the 2023 Apogee Award for CEO Leadership from South Florida Business & Wealth. His developments have also received national recognition, including honors from the SKIFT IDEA Awards for innovation in hospitality.

A respected industry thought leader, Hernandez is frequently invited to speak at leading real estate and investment conferences, where he shares insights on market trends, branded residences, capital markets, hospitality-driven development, and the future of mixed-use communities. He has appeared on stages hosted by The Real Deal, Commercial Observer, Bisnow, IMN, and numerous industry organizations. His expertise has been featured in prominent national and regional media outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The Miami Herald, South Florida Business Journal, and many others.

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